Mike Hart, a running back in his third year in the NFL, and wide receiver Sam Giguere arrived at Harrison College to a roar from the hundreds of Colts fans on hand.
As the announcer bellowed their names the two players along with cheerleaders Sophie and Kathleen ascended the stairs of the stage to another roar from the crowd and immediately began signing autographs and greeting the fans.
"It is a great experience. Everyone doesn't get a chance to come to the stadium, but they still support us," Hart, a graduate of Michigan who appeared in nine games last season, said. "It is great to come out and see those fans and see how happy they are to see us."
Hart also acknowledged the dedication of the Colts' fan base.
"Colts fans are the best in the country," he said. "Anywhere you go in Indiana you'll see Colts licenses plates or Colts shirts and jerseys. Colts fans are strong and their support is what helps make the team great."
One of the fans who have helped make the team great since their arrival in Indiana is Steve Yeaman.
"I was a Colts fan ever since they moved here and probably always will be. I was thrilled when the Colts came to Indianapolis and being a huge football fan it was just great to have them in town," Yeaman said. "And we've enjoyed the event today and especially enjoyed the announcer who just so happens to be my nephew."
Yeaman and his whole family enjoyed meeting Hart and Giguere and taking in all that the MIP Tour has to offer. His children enjoyed the mountain slide and bounce house and conquered the rock wall.
Along with the opportunity to visit a number of sponsors tents and the Maingate merchandise trailer fans could register to win free preseason tickets and check out the Colts in Motion traveling museum.
A little rain toward the end of the event did nothing to dampen a wonderful day at Harrison College with the Colts fans of Lafayette.
For more information on the tour head to mycolts.net and check out my (MIPInternCJ) blog.
